A ratchet socket wrench is a type of wrench that aids in adjusting objects like bolts and nuts more efficiently than a standard socket wrench. It has a ratcheting wrench with a metal handle attached to it and connected to a socket.

Its function is to tighten or loosen an object without losing grip of it. The way it does this is by adjusting the nut/bolt when push or pull in a certain direction. Then, when pulled in the opposite direction, ratchet handle is re-positioned without turning the socket. In doing so, the ratchet wrench maximizes efficiency while minimizing effort. The ratchet wrench has a switch that provides the user to ability to tighten/loosen as needed.

The most common form are hexagonal. Like most other tools, the sizes are always varying form 1/4″, 3/8″, and 2 1/2″.